Stabler had a difficult relationship with his father, who physically and emotionally abused him.

As a result, Stabler has "erased his childhood", and maintains little contact with his mother.

He also has three tattoos, notably the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor tattoo on his forearm (the official emblem of the Marine Corps), and the crucifixion of Christ on his left bicep.

(son) Parents: Joseph Stabler (father, deceased) Bernadette Stabler (mother) Siblings: three brothers two sisters Elliot Stabler is a fictional character portrayed by Christopher Meloni and one of the lead characters on the NBC police procedural series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit during the first twelve seasons.

As a result of Meloni's sudden departure from the cast at the end of the twelfth season, Stabler abruptly resigns from the police force off-screen during the thirteenth season premiere.